Ireland’s last surviving wooden sail cargo vessel visited the Aran Islands and Galway at the weekend to deliver a consignment of spring water – along with a vital message about sustainability.
A cargo of Ishka Irish Spring Water made its way to customers by sea on The Ilen, leaving Limerick city last weekend and docking at Kilronan on Inis Mór. The first delivery was made to Elizabeth Powell, who runs the island’s Spar store, before the vessel sailed onward for Galway city.
The Ilen’s wind-powered voyage followed the ancient sea route linking both cities and was organised to highlight the eco-friendly alternatives which businesses can use to reach their customers.
“The Ilen coastal voyage is enabling our business to transport our goods in a responsible way. I was delighted to be welcomed onboard this historic vessel for this ‘Water by Water’ journey,” said Mike Sutton, director of Ishka.
“We are continually innovating to find and implement the most sustainable ways for our customers to enjoy our natural spring water.
“We have customers right around the Irish coastline and we hope this is one of many sea trips we can organise to deliver our product and send out a positive environmental message.”
Mr Sutton was joined on the journey by Mayor of Limerick City and County, Cllr Michael Collins.
Built in Baltimore in West Cork in 1926, The Ilen served for more than 70 years, transporting sheep and goods between the Falkland Islands before being returned to Ireland 21 years ago and restored by a team led by Limerick man, Gary MacMahon.
Covid-19 guidelines, including social distancing and hand hygiene, were followed during the voyage.
The Ishka water transported in The Ilen’s hold was extracted from the firm’s natural springs at Ballyneety in Limerick and is untreated and untouched by hand before bottling.
